To save lives in conflict

4. Supporting the Reunion of Separated Families

This activity helps families and relatives who have been separated due to the chaos of conflict or forced evacuation, reconnect and reunite. Easing the pain of uncertainty regarding the whereabouts of loved ones is essential for the genuine recovery of daily life.

The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement refers to this support activity as “Restoring Family Links (RFL) program.” It involves collecting information on missing persons and acting as an intermediary for communication between separated family members. To assist families searching for loved ones, first, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement gathers and publishes information on missing persons through its Family Links website. Special attention is given to refugee camps and other evacuation sites, where children are especially vulnerable to becoming separated from their guardians. In cases where a person’s whereabouts has been identified but communication is restricted—such as in refugee camps or areas with non-functioning postal systems—the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement facilitates letter exchanges through a system known as “Red Cross Message.” Many Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers are actively involved in this effort. Because this work sometimes requires a cross-border response, the global network of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement collaborates to ensure effective support.

Link: https://familylinks.icrc.org/how-it-works